I learned to drive in a rather large 1964 Cadillac. I was one of the oldest driver's in my driver's education class at school. My parents would not allow me to get my license until I was 18 and could pay for my own insurance and buy my own car. Learning responsibility? Yes, it was a hard pill to swallow but looking back I probably wasn't ready to hit the LA roads at 16. Many of my friends did and they are still around to tell about it. I am thankful that I learned on the mean streets of California. I have to say I had a few fender benders in my time; 2 my fault, 1 I wasn't even in the car at the time and one hit by flying debris. I consider myself pretty fortunate since my commute was for a long time 80 miles round trip per day. I got myself into some pretty terrifying predicaments and some Indy style driving helped probably save my life a few times. I witnessed several life changing/driving style changing accidents too. Having said that I look to my now place of residence and state in which I live and shake my head in disbelief, again!
Our 1984 Corvette and Hadleigh helping wash. 2012
It has been a difficult couple weeks in our community. In the course of a couple weeks we had two young men die way to young due to car accidents. I am sure as a parent these parents grapple with many things they wished they may have done differently. Kids think they are indestructible, many push the envelope of life and end up with an empty piece of blood-stained folded paper. Hopefully, whatever the scenario was in these two incidents it will open the eyes of other children, parents and open up a dialog to change MO laws and also the way we drive as individuals.
Back in my horse and buggy days you were required to take driver's education in schools. Yes, so having read this post I was one of the seniors in the car full of young teenage drivers. It was a part of the school programs at the time and a help to parents who didn't or couldn't or wouldn't teach their kids to drive. My dad took me briefly to quiet industrial areas and taught me but the majority was done by the instructor. Also many driving schools were dotted in my State so there was no option uncovered except maybe those who just didn't want to learn to drive, of which I knew a few. Still shake my head at that also.
A few days after the incidents I was talking to people from several groups and most came back with the same response. Why do they not make it a requirement to go through driver's education for people especially kids to get licensed? A day later an article suddenly appeared in our local paper (Sedalia Democrat) http://bit.ly/1QqvVjR
One of the consistent comments I have heard why parents don't have them take the course is: cost. In our school district it is $180.00. I understand the cost could be a hardship for some people due to economic reasons but my philosophy and I find I have not been alone is "IT IS WORTH IT" If it gives a little extra tools, practice and hours behind the wheel why not? Do without so that it gives you and your child a little extra knowledge of that crazy road out their.Putting an inexperienced person behind the wheel of a vehicle is a major milestone of sorts.
Both of my kids took the course. I remember asking them having took a similar course if they thought it was worth it and both said yes. I almost think they should go a step further and require all drivers, yes all drivers to take a refresher course. We all tend to forget, the rules of the road and we should welcome it.
You never know when you get in a vehicle these days especially with texting, cellphones etc. what situation you might be faced with. Keep your hands on the wheel, and stay safe. Your life and those around you might depend on it.
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